The World Boxing Organization is reviewing a petition to allow an undisputed heavyweight title rematch between IBF champion Daniel Dubois and WBO/WBA champion Oleksandr Usyk, which could delay Joseph Parker’s mandatory challenge.
Parker became the WBO mandatory by knocking out Martin Bakole in Riyadh on February 22, a substitute opponent after Dubois fell ill. While Parker sits poised for a shot at Usyk’s WBO belt, many observers believe an undisputed clash between Usyk and Dubois may be deemed more lucrative, especially if staged at a major venue like Wembley Stadium.
Parker’s path back into contention included victories over Bakole, Zhilei Zhang, and Deontay Wilder, reestablishing him in the title conversation. Still, the WBO may prioritize an undisputed match. Usyk and Dubois first met in August 2023, a fight marred by controversy over a fifth-round body shot Dubois landed that the referee deemed low, preventing him from scoring what some insist would have been a knockout. Usyk recovered and stopped Dubois in the ninth. Critics maintain Dubois quit under pressure, while his supporters argue he was on the verge of an upset victory until the referee’s ruling.
If the WBO grants permission for the undisputed rematch, Parker’s mandated title opportunity could be pushed behind the second meeting of these two heavyweights. Parker supporters fear that the New Zealander’s come-forward style, though once an attraction, has become less marketable compared to the narrative of a Dubois-Usyk repeat.
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